Lou Reed's 'The Raven' Turned Into Illustrated Book

Back in 2003, Lou Reed paid tribute to poet Edgar Allen Poe with his sprawling The Raven, which didn't exactly strike a positive chord with the many critics and fans at the time. Nevertheless, Reed will now be revisiting that album with a new illustrated book.

The book, also titled The Raven, was made in collaboration with Italian illustrator Lorenzo Mattotti. This 188-page hardcover tome is being published by Fantagraphics, and is full colour and 9"x9" in size.

We originally called The Raven "bizarre and thoroughly uneven." We'll have to see if this new illustrated spin helps to make the entire album a bit more rewarding. The book is out this summer, and you can pre-order it right here.

If you're looking for a taste of Reed's classic output, you will be pleased to know that he's gearing up to release a live DVD. Entitled Lou Reed Live at Lollapalooza 2009, it includes beloved cuts like "Sweet Jane," "I'm Waiting for the Man" and "Walk on the Wild Side." The DVD is out July 19.

Also, be sure to check Reed's official website for DVD details and upcoming European tour dates.